Arabs Must Come Out of the Illusion That the US Is There to Protect Them

When we launched our blog, Geo Politics in South Asia and MENA, in June 2012, I had a clear perception that the United States wanted to keep Arab monarchies strategically dependent on Washington. Its objectives were straightforward: secure access to inexpensive oil, ensure petroleum transactions remained predominantly dollar-denominated, and sell billions of dollars' worth of weapons to wealthy Arab states.

The US-Saudi strategic relationship laid the foundation for this arrangement. Over subsequent decades, Washington consolidated its influence over Arab oil producers while becoming their principal arms supplier.

Following the Islamic Revolution in Iran in 1979, the United States increasingly promoted the narrative that Iran posed a greater threat to Arab security than Israel. This perception helped Washington strengthen its military presence and deepen Arab dependence on American protection.

Egypt, although not part of the Arabian Peninsula, was persuaded to sign the Camp David Accords and subsequently normalize relations with Israel. During Trump's first presidency, several other Arab countries were encouraged to join the Abraham Accords.

Meanwhile, the United States established military bases across the Gulf, ostensibly to protect Arab monarchies against Iranian aggression. Recent developments, however, have exposed the limitations of this security arrangement. American bases were extensively used in military operations against Iran, yet their presence did not guarantee adequate protection against Iranian missile and drone attacks on Arab territories.

Developments surrounding the Strait of Hormuz have further strengthened the perception that Washington's regional priorities do not necessarily coincide with those of Arab oil producers. Disruption of this vital energy corridor threatens not only Iran but also the economic interests of Gulf exporters.

These developments should compel Arab leaders to reconsider decades of strategic dependence. The Iranian threat should not remain a permanent justification for Arab subservience to American interests.

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) must convene an emergency summit to initiate a new regional security framework. Member states should overcome historical animosities, establish cordial relations with Iran and stop outsourcing their security to Washington.

They must also strengthen independent defence capabilities and expand strategic partnerships with China and Russia.

The time has come for Arab monarchies to recognize that American protection comes with American priorities. Regional security must be built through regional cooperation, not purchased through endless arms deals.